Rotorua is one of the most popular tourist destinations in New Zealand, and for a good reason. It’s a bubbling hotbed of Māori culture, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures.
Located in the heart of the North Island, Rotorua is easy to get to and makes for a great stopover on a road trip around New Zealand. Whether you’re looking for a few days of relaxation or a week of adrenaline-pumping adventure, Rotorua has something for everyone.
To help you make the most of your time in Rotorua, we’ve compiled a list of the top 6 things to do. So, without further ado, here are the best things to do in Rotorua.
1. Visit Rainbow Springs:
Rotorua is famous for its geothermal activity bubbling pools and steaming vents are everywhere you look but the most spectacular example is Rainbow Springs. Located south of town, this wildlife sanctuary is home to native birds such as tui and bellbirds as well as kiwis, eels and other native species that live in its streams and pools.
2. Go Zorbing:
Zorbing is an adventure activity that involves rolling down a hill or slope in a giant inflatable ball. It’s a great way to get some fresh air while experiencing the thrill of free-falling, and it’s tons of fun! There are two zorb stations in Rotorua: Rainbow Springs and Lake Tarawera. Rainbow Springs is open all year round, whereas Lake Tarawera only operates during the summer months (from October to April). Both locations offer excellent views of Lake Rotorua and Mount Tarawera (the volcano behind it).
3. Visit Hell’s Gate:
Rotorua is known as the “Home of the Māori”. There are more than 50 Māori tribes living in and around Rotorua, and many of them operate tourist attractions that showcase their culture and history. One of the most popular is Hell’s Gate, an active geothermal area with boiling mud pools, steaming vents, and bubbling mud pots. It’s also home to Te Puia – a Māori cultural experience centre that offers guided tours through the park.
4. Soak in a geothermal spa:
There are several geothermal spas throughout Rotorua that offer health benefits for both your body and mind. The Blue Baths at Te Pukatea Wharepapa Walkway is one of my personal favourites because it offers both indoor and outdoor pools with varying temperatures so you can choose which one suits your needs best! Some of these spas even offer private pools where you can relax with friends or family while enjoying views of Mount Tarawera (also known as Mount Doom from Lord of the Rings).
5. Take a helicopter ride to White Island:
White Island is a volcano that sits off the coast of New Zealand’s North Island. The island is home to sulphur vents that spew hot steam into the air, giving it its name (it’s not actually white). Although it’s one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world (it’s been erupting since 2000), you can get up close and personal with this natural wonder from above by taking a helicopter ride over it. The views are breathtaking, and you won’t find them anywhere else in New Zealand.
6. Raft down the Kaituna River:
The Kaituna River is one of the most popular white-water rafting spots in New Zealand. It’s also where the movie “The Adventures of Sir Galahad” was filmed. If you want to experience this famous adventure, you can book a tour with any number of companies in Rotorua. You’ll be picked up at your hotel and driven to the river, where you can enjoy an unforgettable day on the water.
Conclusion:
With these top five best things to do in Rotorua, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip. Whether you’re a high school student on a class trip or a family with plans to visit the Agrodome, there’s something here for everyone. Check out these activities, and check out Rotorua while you’re at it you won’t be disappointed.
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